UNILORIN’s First Class Graduate Credits Father’s Early Lessons and Family Support for Academic Success

Ayodeji Akinsanya, the best graduating student at the University of Ilorin with a CGPA of 4.97, attributed his academic success to his father’s early tutoring in Mathematics, family support, and perseverance through financial challenges.

The University of Ilorin, Kwara State, recently celebrated its 2024 convocation ceremony, where 24-year-old Ayodeji Akinsanya emerged as the overall best graduating student with a remarkable CGPA of 4.97. Akinsanya, a Mathematics graduate, reflected on his academic journey, attributing much of his success to the sacrifices and early education provided by his father during difficult times.

Akinsanya shared that his passion for Mathematics was ignited when his father, who lost his job when Ayodeji was just five, began homeschooling him and his siblings. Unable to afford formal education, his father—trained in statistics—focused on teaching Mathematics, introducing his children to complex concepts like permutations and factorials. This personalized instruction not only helped Akinsanya grasp mathematical concepts quickly but also laid the foundation for his lifelong interest in the subject.

“When we couldn’t attend school, my father’s dedication to our education made all the difference,” Akinsanya said. “He simplified complex topics and showed me how enjoyable problem-solving could be. That’s when I fell in love with Mathematics.” His exceptional performance in primary and secondary school, where he consistently scored above 90%, solidified his decision to pursue a Mathematics degree.

Despite his academic excellence, Akinsanya faced several challenges along the way. He initially struggled to secure admission to university, attempting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) four times. His father initially encouraged him to study Engineering, believing it had better prospects. However, with the support of his mother and older brother, Akinsanya was eventually allowed to pursue his passion for Mathematics.

Financial difficulties were another hurdle throughout his university years. Coming from a humble background, he balanced academics with part-time teaching jobs and secured scholarships from MTN and the Federal Government to cover tuition and living expenses. “It was tough balancing coursework with teaching, but the scholarships and support from friends kept me going,” he recalled.

Akinsanya’s strategy for academic success involved rigorous preparation and time management. He emphasized the importance of building a strong foundation by studying course materials during holidays and reviewing lectures immediately after classes. “I never procrastinated. This helped me stay ahead in my studies,” he said.

Reflecting on the personal challenges he encountered, Akinsanya admitted that there were moments of self-doubt, particularly during his second and third years when the coursework became more demanding. “There were times I felt like giving up, but I stayed determined and worked harder. Even when I struggled with certain tests, I pushed through and eventually earned top grades.”

He also credited his success to his supportive family. His father, a UNILORIN alumnus with a CGPA above 4.0, constantly motivated him to exceed expectations. His mother, on the other hand, provided unwavering financial and emotional support, once going so far as to take out a loan to help cover his expenses. “Her sacrifices pushed me to work even harder. She’s truly the best mother anyone could ask for,” he said.

Akinsanya stressed the value of collaboration, highlighting how study sessions with friends helped him grasp complex concepts. He also benefited from the mentorship of his project supervisor and level advisor, who provided guidance on research and academic planning.

Looking ahead, Akinsanya plans to pursue a master’s and PhD after completing his mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program. He hopes to bridge the gap between theoretical and applied Mathematics, demonstrating its practical relevance beyond academia.

Akinsanya also shared advice for struggling students, encouraging them to understand their learning styles and develop effective study routines. “Whether you’re a fast or slow learner, the key is to start early and remain consistent,” he said.

Reflecting on the challenges faced by fresh graduates in Nigeria’s job market, he emphasized the importance of skill development alongside academics. “It’s not just about graduating; students should build relevant skills in areas like tech, data science, or cybersecurity to remain competitive.”

Grateful for the journey, Akinsanya acknowledged the role of divine intervention in his achievements. “There were times I thought I wouldn’t graduate because of financial difficulties, but God’s grace saw me through,” he concluded.

Akinsanya’s inspiring story serves as a testament to the power of resilience, family support, and dedication, offering valuable lessons to students and future graduates alike.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, PUNCH